Aromatherapy for Pain Relief

It is very often that clients ask me for aromatherapy solutions to relieve pain. Pain can have numerous origins and manifests itself in different ways. Several disorders such as rheumatism, arthritis, gout and tendinitis cause pain in the muscles or joints, which can be quite debilitating at times.

While some essential oils are very effective in providing localized relief, others work from deep within to eliminate toxins and reduce inflammation.

Hot compresses give considerable relief and several massage therapists have shared with me that alternate hot and ice cold compresses work the best.

Massage is an age-old and time-tested remedy for pain as it stimulates circulation and expels toxins.If inflammation is the cause of pain, a warm aromatic bath can relieve the soreness and comfort the joints. It is also a great way to detoxify the system.

Always bear in mind that a painful muscle is often a manifestation of mental stress and anxiety. The wonderful thing about aromatherapy is that it always addresses physical, mental and emotional aspects and promotes holistic healing. Incorrect posture can cause chronic pain, especially in the shoulders and back.According to Shirley and Len Price, authors of Aromatherapy for Health Professionals, “Most people with pain usually become anxious about the possible implications; this leads to muscle tension and muscle tension increases the pain that increases the emotional response and so on, each perpetuating the other into a vicious circle that can become a spiraling process.”

Muscle pain is usually caused due to the accumulation of toxins and uric acid within the muscle tissue. Essential oils penetrate deep to help eliminate toxic build up and also prevent further accumulation of uric acid. Here are some the oils that can be used safely at home:

Methods of use:

Mix a total of 60 drops of the essential oils you choose with 4 oz of carrier oil. Massage sore areas with this blend twice a day.You may also follow up with alternate hot and cold compresses.
Soak in a bath with a choice of three of these oils, 3-4 drops each: Lavender, Ravensara, Cardamom, Frankincense, Niaouli, Pine, Geranium and Patchouli oils added to it. This relaxes the muscles and provides instant relief from pain.

Born and raised in the Ecuadorian capital, Quito, Cristina's memories are always related to the scents of her homeland. A professional Aromatherapist since 1994, Cristina received her Complementary Health Education Diploma in Aromatherapy in 1997 from the Kevala Center in the U.K., and advanced her studies in 1998 when she took the International Training Program in Essential Oils at Purdue University in Indiana.
Cristina has more than 14 years of experience formulating aromatherapy products for the spa, fitness and hospitality industry and speaking with North and South American audiences on television and radio as well as in seminars and workshops.
She is eager to share her successful experience and the therapeutic values of her homeland's pure healing ingredients.